As April blossoms into its full glory, it heralds not just the arrival of spring but also the onset of the holiday and vacation season. With the sun casting its warm embrace and nature awakening from its winter slumber, thoughts turn eagerly toward leisure and relaxation. For many, this time of year sparks dreams of owning holiday homes, a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of daily life—a place to retreat, recharge, and create lasting memories.
In this blog, we delve into the burgeoning trends in purchasing second homes, explore the motivations behind this lifestyle choice, and unveil the top destinations worldwide for those seeking their perfect vacation abode. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil shores of a beachfront paradise, the serene solitude of a mountain retreat, or the vibrant culture of a bustling city, let us be your guide as we navigate the landscape of holiday home ownership and uncover the hidden gems waiting to become your home away from home.
India’s Holiday Homes Market
India’s market for holiday homes has experienced an unprecedented surge in recent years. An industry report shows that the market was valued at US Dollar 1.4 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach US Dollar 4.021 billion by 2026. The increased demand for farmhouse retreats and luxury villas in seaside and snow-capped hill stations has given rise to a thriving market for second homes.
According to the report, which aims to identify the most prominent vacation home/second home markets in India, Shimla, Sindhudurg, and Coorg are among the top 10 destinations for second homes in India. Other popular second-home destinations identified in the report include Dehradun and Mussoorie, Siliguri and Darjeeling, Nandi Hills, Pondicherry, Chamba and Tehri Belt, Rishikesh and Haridwar belt, and Lonavla and Mahabaleshwar.
Emerging Markets of Holiday Homes and Second-Homes
Sirmaur
Situated in northern India, Sirmaur, alongside Kasauli, is a coveted location for luxury holiday homes. It offers a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility, with well-connected roads from major cities. The lush landscapes and pleasant climate make it a favored destination for those seeking an escape from urban life. Continuous infrastructural developments further enhance its appeal as a promising real estate market in the region.
Rishikesh
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh attracts individuals in search of spiritual rejuvenation and natural beauty. Known for its well-maintained roads and as a hub for yoga retreats, the region offers serene surroundings along the banks of the Ganges River—ideal for luxury holiday homes. Ongoing infrastructural improvements have led to a surge in property demand in these areas.
Sindhudurg and Adjacent Regions
Sindhudurg and its neighboring regions along the Goa-Maharashtra border boast pristine beaches and lush landscapes. The appeal of coastal living, coupled with proximity to Goa and Maharashtra, drives its popularity. The recent development of Sindhudurg Airport has further improved connectivity. It has stimulated growth opportunities and positively impacted the local real estate market.
Lonavala
Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Lonavala is a picturesque hill station that serves as an ideal retreat. Its close proximity to Mumbai and Pune, facilitated by well-developed road and rail networks such as the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, has positioned Lonavala as a favored weekend getaway destination. This enhanced accessibility has fueled real estate growth in the area.
Nandi Hills Region
Just 62 km from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is a highly sought-after holiday destination known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Offering a pleasant climate year-round, it provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its proximity to Kempegowda International Airport has led to increased interest in real estate investment. It further solidified its appeal as a holiday home destination.
Alibaug
Alibaug is a popular weekend destination due to its pristine beaches, lush green environment, and availability of large land parcels for vacation homes. Its biggest advantage is its proximity to Mumbai and numerous real estate projects by leading developers. You can reach there within three hours by road from Mumbai, and even quicker if you take the water jetty. Many Bollywood celebrities and businessmen invest heavily in residential properties in Alibaug. For instance, Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli recently acquired an eight-acre land parcel in Zirad village of the coastal town. Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone also performed the Griha Pravesh Puja for their new home in Alibaug in August of this year.
Goa
As per a recent article by Forbes India, Goa remains the top choice for holiday homes and returns. Goa is a popular coastal region in India that attracts many buyers looking for vacation homes. The lively beaches and luxurious living of Goa are well-known. Some lesser-known areas in Goa still retain the old Goan charm and are located near the popular nightlife spots. Apart from Goa, other nearby areas, such as Karwar, Gokarna, and Udupi, offer beautiful beaches, island life, and friendly locals.
Mussoorie
Mussoorie, located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a popular destination for vacation home investors. It is known for its picturesque hills, lush green landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna. The town is close to tourist hotspots like Dehradun and Rishikesh, making it an attractive option for real estate investment.
Developers are taking an interest in creating eco-friendly developments to attract younger investors and second homeowners. With current favorable economic conditions and market sentiment, the luxury holiday homes sector is expected to see higher demand. Especially in India’s property market, which offers diverse offerings. Nowadays, developers, architects, and interior designers emphasize design aspects such as self-sustainability, flexibility, and ecological balance.